Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, but it can come with unexpected challenges. And one such challenge is gestational diabetes. Any woman can develop this condition, even without a prior history of diabetes. In fact, gestational diabetes symptoms can often go unnoticed until routine screening during the second trimester.
If you’re wondering, “why gestational diabetes occurs?”, the answer ideally lies in the hormonal toll that happens during pregnancy. These changes particularly placental hormones interfere with insulin function, leading to high blood sugar symptoms in gestational diabetes. The good thing about if gestational diabetes can be managed is with the right diet and lifestyle.
What Is Gestational Diabetes?
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a type of diabetes that occurs only during pregnancy. It usually shows up in the second or third trimester when the body becomes resistant to insulin. This leads to symptoms of gestational diabetes in pregnancy, such as fatigue, frequent urination, excessive thirst and blurred vision.
The signs and symptoms of gestational diabetes mellitus can vary from person to person and sometimes, they can be so mild that they are mistaken for normal pregnancy discomforts. However, if left unmanaged, high blood sugar during pregnancy can lead to complications for both the mother and the baby.
Common Gestational Diabetes Symptoms
While some women may not experience noticeable signs, it’s important to look out for these gestational diabetes symptoms:
- Excessive thirst
- Increased hunger
- Frequent urination
- Fatigue or drowsiness
- Nausea
- Blurred vision
- Recurrent infections
These symptoms of gestational diabetes in pregnancy may appear gradually. That’s why routine screening tests between 24 – 28 weeks hold importance.
Why Gestational Diabetes Occurs?
Pregnancy hormones, especially those produced by the placenta can block the action of insulin in your body. This results in insulin resistance. When your pancreas can’t keep up with the increased insulin demand, blood sugar levels rise, leading to gestational diabetes.
But can gestational diabetes be cured? While it can’t be “cured” in the traditional sense, the condition usually goes away after delivery. However, it’s still essential to manage it carefully during pregnancy to avoid any complications.
Does Gestational Diabetes Go Away After Delivery?
This is one of the most common concerns among expecting mothers, “Does gestational diabetes go away?”
In most cases, yes gestational diabetes disappears after childbirth. However, women who have had GDM are at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life. Regular follow-ups and post-pregnancy blood sugar checks are recommended.
Diet Tips to Manage Gestational Diabetes
- Choose Complex Carbs Over Simple Sugars
Choose whole grains such as brown rice, oats, barley and quinoa over refined carbs such as white bread, sugary drinks and sweets that could spike blood sugar.
- Prioritize Protein and Fiber
Protein and fibre slow down digestion, helping stabilize blood sugar. Include lean meats, eggs, legumes, nuts, seeds and leafy greens in your meals.
- Eat Small, Frequent Meals
Instead of three large meals, break your food intake into 5-6 smaller meals. This helps maintain steady sugar levels and prevents energy crashes.
- Watch Your Portion Sizes
Even healthy carbs can affect your sugar levels if eaten in large portions. Keep a food diary or consult a nutritionist to plan the best portion sizes.
- Hydrate Smartly
Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Avoid sugary beverages and opt for infused water or unsweetened herbal teas instead.
Best Lifestyle Tips for Pregnant Women with Diabetes
- Stay Active (Safely)
Gentle exercises such as walking, prenatal yoga and swimming helps improve insulin sensitivity while managing blood sugar. Do consult your doctor before adopting any of these into your routine.
- Monitor Blood Sugar Levels
Track your sugar levels at home using a glucometer. This helps you understand what foods or habits affect your glucose levels.
- Get Enough Sleep
Poor sleep can lead to increased insulin resistance. Aim for 7-9 hours of restful sleep, and use pillows for better posture and comfort.
- Manage Stress
Stress hormones can worsen insulin resistance. Indulge in meditation, deep breathing, or light stretching after consulting your doctor.
Conclusion
Being diagnosed with gestational diabetes can be overwhelming but with the right support, nutrition and lifestyle, you can have a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby. If you’re noticing any signs and symptoms of gestational diabetes, don’t delay your screening. Early detection and proactive management are key.
Can gestational diabetes be cured? Not while you’re pregnant—but it can be reversed post-delivery in most cases. However, keeping your blood sugar in check during this time. For quality medications and supplements to support diabetes, choose Healing Pharma. From blood sugar support to prenatal care as your health is our priority.Bottom of Form
